Nourishing those in need in downtown Milwaukee

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About

Interchange Milwaukee was created in 1971 to tackle hunger issues on Milwaukee’s Lower East Side and Downtown. At a time when disruptions to the area included the destruction of residences and businesses to make way for freeway construction, an ecumenical coalition of church congregations from these neighborhoods saw new needs emerging and spearheaded this effort.

From its start literally in a closet, Interchange became a proven neighborhood resource — designated through Milwaukee’s Hunger Task Force Network as the primary provider meeting emergency food needs in the 53202, 53203, 53211 and 53233 zip codes. Serving this urban area through economic swings that can bring painful disruption to individual lives, Interchange today helps nearly 1,000 individuals every month with a nutritious bag of staples, frozen items, bread, dairy and fresh produce. Pantry guests also receive a personal hygiene item with each bag of groceries.

In operating an emergency food pantry, we are committed to serving those in need without discrimination, regardless of beliefs. Interchange works to refer pantry visitors for Food Share, employment credits and health care for which they are eligible. We also use the State of Wisconsin’s Job Net to assist in finding employment. Supporting institutions include founding congregations and organizations that have joined Interchange in more recent years: The Cathedral Church of All Saints, First Unitarian Society of Milwaukee, Immanuel Presbyterian Church, North Shore Presbyterian Church, St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, Summerfield Methodist Church and Village Church (ELCA).

Your support for Interchange will make a difference in the lives of people struggling with hunger and nutritional needs in Milwaukee. We invite you to get involved in Interchange in a number of ways: